Allyship’s Post

I am a Black Woman, A Proud Black Woman - Not a Person of Colour! Words carry power, and how we label ourselves and others shapes our conversations around identity and lived experience. I identify as a Black woman, not as a Person of Colour (POC). The term "POC" has gained popularity as a way to refer to non-white communities collectively. While it may offer solidarity, it risks overlooking the nuances within those communities. Lumping us all under the same umbrella is not only inaccurate—it can be dangerous. For example, the experiences of Black people, shaped by distinct histories, cultural legacies, and systemic barriers, are not interchangeable with those of all "POC." The challenges Black people face, such as anti-Black racism, are unique and require specific attention, understanding, and action. When we treat all non-white experiences as the same, we risk diluting the unique struggles and stories within each group. Embracing specificity means respecting these differences and acknowledging that a one-size-fits-all approach cannot do justice to each community. 💬 Let's continue to refine our language to build truly inclusive spaces. Recognise the power of words, and let's use them to foster genuine understanding, respect, and allyship. #IdentityMatters #BlackExperience #NotPOC #InclusiveLanguage #Alyship#DiversityAndInclusion

Happy Juneteenth, Partners! Today, we celebrate Juneteenth, a day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. It's a day to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of the Black community, and recommit ourselves to building a more equitable future. As partners, let's use this occasion to: Educate ourselves: Let's continue to learn about Black history and the ongoing fight for racial equality. There are many resources available, such as books by Black authors and documentaries about the Civil Rights Movement. Amplify Black voices: Let's support Black-owned businesses and promote the achievements of Black professionals in our networks. Advocate for change: Let's work together to dismantle systemic racism and create opportunities for all. Together, we can create a more just and inclusive world. ✊ #Juneteenth #BlackLivesMatter #Equality P.S. I'd love to hear how you're celebrating Juneteenth in the comments below!

Today, we honor and celebrate Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in American history that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. This day not only marks the liberation of the last enslaved African Americans in 1865 but also serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength, and enduring spirit of the Black community. At FGi, we are committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We recognize that our strength lies in our diversity, and we strive to create an environment where every voice is heard and valued. Today, and every day, we stand together in support of justice, equality, and the ongoing fight against systemic racism. #FGiSolutions | #DiversityAndInclusion | #FGiSolutions | #Equality | #BlackHistory

During Black History Month, we celebrate the rich history and culture of the Black community while also reflecting on the progress made in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. It's also a time to acknowledge the work that still needs to be done... ❗1 in 3 callers to the Men’s Advice Line identified as being from ethnic minority backgrounds.  ❕ 1 in 3 male victims from Black and minoritised communities experienced coercive controlling behaviours 5 times or more. ❗ During the first lockdown in 2020, the percentage of male victims identified as from Black and minoritised communities incraesed to 40%. ** Source Reference: Respect, 'Men's Advice Line service review 2020-2021: A lifeline for male victims: new report shows impact of Men’s Advice Line during Covid-19 crisis', June 2021. Full report available from: https://lnkd.in/e6B9V558 #blackhistroymonth #ethnicminorities #BAME #inclusive #divercity #equality

Inspired by this comment, I want to highlight three other common anti-Black ways that Black people are often referred to: 1️⃣Boys or Girls: Referring to adult Black men and women as "boys" or "girls" carries a significant historical context of anti-Black racism, infantilisation, and the enforcement of racial hierarchy. For example, the term "boy" was used as a racial epithet to subjugate enslaved Black men in the United States. This usage persists today, often serving as a covert means to disempower Black individuals and limit their agency. 2️⃣Gang: I’ve experienced comments like, “You’re always hanging out with your gang at lunch, Benjy,” referring to me and a few other Black colleagues eating together. And it’s a common complaint I hear as an inclusion consultant. This term is derogatory and unfortunately very normalised way of reinforcing racist, anti-Black stereotypes. It acts as a covert way to exclude Black people from spaces like the workplace and discourages the community building that can be essential for survival in such environments. 3️⃣You People / Those People: Such language is intentionally othering and dehumanising. It often serves to assert a hierarchy and diminish the voices and perspectives of Black people. For instance, statements like “you people are always complaining” or “those people are overly sensitive”. — This is the latest post in my “BLACKTEMBER” series, where I’m sharing pro-Black inclusion content every weekday (Mon-Fri) in the lead-up to UK Black History Month. #learnonlinkedin #inclusion #antiracism

**Why Conversations Matter in the Black Community** Engaging in open, honest conversations is vital for the growth and empowerment of the Black community. These dialogues foster understanding, build stronger connections, and pave the way for collective progress. 1. **Healing and Support**: Conversations provide a space to share experiences, find common ground, and offer emotional support. This is essential for healing historical and personal traumas. 2. **Education and Awareness**: Through dialogue, we can educate ourselves and others about issues that affect our community. Knowledge empowers us to take informed actions and advocate for our rights. 3. **Breaking Barriers**: By discussing taboo subjects and challenging stereotypes, we can break down societal barriers and promote a more inclusive and equitable environment. 4. **Inspiring Change**: Conversations ignite ideas and inspire action. They are the starting point for initiatives that can drive meaningful change in our communities and beyond. Let's continue to engage in these critical conversations, uplifting and empowering each other. Together, we can create a brighter future for the Black community. #Community #Empowerment #BlackVoices #ConversationsMatter #Inclusion #Equity

On this Juneteenth, we celebrate freedom and reflect on the resilience and contributions of Black communities throughout history. As we honor this pivotal moment in American history, it's a reminder of our ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in all aspects of our work at the Institute for Diversity and Inclusion in Emergency Management (I-DIEM). In emergency management, embracing DEI principles isn't just a moral imperative; it's essential for building resilient communities. Diverse perspectives and inclusive practices ensure that all voices are heard and that our strategies are equitable and effective. As we commemorate Juneteenth and Emancipation Day, let's reaffirm our dedication to fostering a more inclusive and just society, both in our communities and within our profession. #Juneteenth #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #EmergencyManagement #IDIEM

Today, we commemorate Juneteenth, a significant day that marks the end of slavery in the United States. It's a time to acknowledge the hardships endured by African Americans throughout our nation's history and to celebrate their resilience, strength, and invaluable contributions to society. While we reflect on the progress made towards racial justice and equality, it's essential to recognize that there is still work to be done. Here at Avo Solutions, we stand in solidarity with the Black community and remain dedicated to fostering a workplace that embraces diversity, champions inclusion, and combats discrimination in all its forms. Let's keep engaging in crucial conversations, taking concrete steps, and supporting one another as we strive for a brighter future for everyone. #Juneteenth #BlackLivesMatter #DiversityandInclusion

On this Juneteenth, we celebrate freedom and reflect on the resilience and contributions of Black communities throughout history. As we honor this pivotal moment in American history, it's a reminder of our ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in all aspects of our work at the Institute for Diversity and Inclusion in Emergency Management (I-DIEM). In emergency management, embracing DEI principles isn't just a moral imperative; it's essential for building resilient communities. Diverse perspectives and inclusive practices ensure that all voices are heard and that our strategies are equitable and effective. As we commemorate Juneteenth and Emancipation Day, let's reaffirm our dedication to fostering a more inclusive and just society, both in our communities and within our profession. #Juneteenth #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #EmergencyManagement #IDIEM

🌟 Today, on Juneteenth, I want to take a moment to applaud the companies and organizations that not only acknowledge this important day but truly embody its spirit year-round. It’s easy for businesses to post about diversity and inclusion, but it’s another thing entirely to live those values every day. Let’s celebrate the companies that prioritize equity, diversity, and inclusion not just in their messaging, but in their actions and policies. To all the organizations fostering environments where every employee feels valued, seen, and heard—thank you. Your commitment to making meaningful change is what moves us forward as a society. On this Juneteenth, let's continue to amplify Black voices, celebrate Black excellence, and work together towards a future where every day is a celebration of freedom and equality for all. #Juneteenth #DiversityandInclusion #Equity #CelebratingExcellence #SocialChange